Innis & Gunn has collaborated with iconic Islay-based whisky maker Laphroaig to brew a limited-edition beer, Islay Whisky Cask.
The 7.4% ABV Scottish red ale has been slowly matured in rare, Laphroaig single malt whisky quarter casks. Each bottle comes with a specially designed gift carton.
First unveiled last year, Islay Whisky Cask quickly became Innis & Gunn’s fastest selling limited edition, selling out in record time both through its online shop and across international markets.
For 2022, the brewer has been able to release more beer to meet demand. However, the rarity of the casks in which the beer has been matured means availability will still remain limited.
The beer is intense and distinctive, in part due to its three-month maturation in the whisky casks. During this time, the beer has extracted complex flavours. There are hallmark Laphroaig aromas of peat smoke and brine, coupled with vanilla, coconut, and floral notes. These, combined with the rich, warming, malty, sweet flavours of the beer, create an intense, balanced taste, with an unexpected freshness.
Innis & Gunn founder, Dougal Gunn Sharp, said: “Islay Whisky Cask is a truly distinctive beer which offers both beer and whisky lovers a very special, completely unique, drinking experience. The packaging immediately evokes the island of Islay, and from the moment you open the bottle you are transported, welcomed by the iconic, unmistakable Laphroaig aroma.
“Innis & Gunn’s collaboration with Laphroaig last year was so well received we knew we wanted to brew this inimitable beer again, and make it even better if we could. This year, we used rare Laphroaig quarter casks. These unusually small casks provide a greater contact area between beer and cask, resulting in incredible depth of flavour and intensity in the finished beer.
“I am immensely proud of Islay Whisky Cask, which perfectly demonstrates Innis & Gunn’s quality, premium approach to brewing, an ethos which is applied not just to our limited editions, but our core range too, including our award-winning Innis & Gunn Lager Beer.”
Chris Richardson, global senior director at Laphroaig, added: “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Innis & Gunn, a brand that shares not only our Scottish heritage, but more importantly our dedication to craftsmanship and quality.
“This second Islay Whisky Cask release brings the influence of our quarter casks to life beautifully, balancing hints of peat smoke and brine with the deep malty notes of a Scottish red ale. It’s a new way to experience Laphroaig’s signature bold flavour that whisky fans and beer lovers alike are sure to enjoy.”
